Dapper Dudes: He Got Game. You Don’t. Now What?

Vixen

Cole Haan Penny loafers, crisp cuffed trousers, a chambray shirt and vintage YSL briefcase are his closet staples. He’s the type of guy not afraid to rock an assortment of accessories—rings on each finger, piled-on beaded bracelets and an oversized ankh pendant on a chain. The kind of guy who knows that a pocket square is not a snack you heat up in the microwave. We’re talking about the dapper dudes who add a sexy urban twist to classic and collegiate menswear. The kind you find featured on a street-style blog like BrooklynCircus or StreetEtiquette. We’ve all seen them. And now you’re dating one.

The two of you met at a local coffee shop and your chemistry was instant. You were immediately drawn to the way his personal style reflected his irresistible charm and effortless swagger. Colorful bowties, linen shorts, cardigans in slim silhouettes—each ensemble is injected with some ounce of creativity and individuality. He’s always dressed impeccably. In other words, his game is on point.

As for you? Well, your sense of style has always been more . . . safe. It’s not as ummm, eclectic. You’re more of a stick-to-basics kind of gal. You know, skinny jeans, v-neck sweaters, the occasional little black dress and heels. It has always suited you just fine. Until now. You want to turn heads together, not walk in your man’s shadow. But how can you possibly keep up?

There’s no reason why we all can’t take a few styling cues from the boys . . . even if they happen to be our boyfriends. If what’s holding you back from experimenting and being more adventurous with your look is, well, you, there’s no harm in turning to your man. Ask him what he’d like to see you in. After your lunch date, take him on one of your thrifting excursions. Try outfits on in front of him—with sexy under-things for his viewing pleasure. If all else fails, just raid his closet! His tweed vest will pair seamlessly with your riding boots. And his new Men’s COACH messenger with your slim cropped pants? Ahhh, a match made in heaven, just like you and your guy.

But with that said, let’s face it. No man wants to date his twin. While the pressure might be there, it’s not necessary to mirror his impeccable sense of style. He was a fan of what you were wearing when you two first started dating, so stay true to who you are. Whether it’s you, your dude, or both who stop traffic, if you have a solid relationship it shouldn’t matter how stylish you two dress. (Now, that’s not to say a little effort here and there isn’t nice to keep the spice alive.) Because at the end of the day, that Rugby oxford shirt and those J.Crew chinos are ending up on your bedroom floor.